Labor Defends Consultant Cuts as It Takes Aim at Coalition’s Public Service Slashes

Pressed on the contrast, Albanese said Labor’s cuts were about value for money.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese takes questions during a visit to Pacific Link Housing in the electorate of Robertson in Gosford, Australia, on April 28, 2025. Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images

While Labor targeted Coalition’s plan to cut 41,000 public servants as a point of contention, it has also defended its own move to slash 54,000 private consultants.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers argue Labor is targeting waste, not essential services.